Novel Use of Atomized Intravenous Ketamine Solution for the Topical Treatment of Intranasal Mucositis Pain: A Case Report.

Abstract

<b><i>Context:</i></b> Treatment-induced mucositis commonly affects cancer patients, and ketamine oral rinse solution has shown efficacy for refractory pain. Although intranasal ketamine as systemic therapy has previously been studied, there are no reports on intranasal ketamine spray for topical pain treatment. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> To present the novel use of atomized intravenous ketamine solution for topical treatment of sinonasal mucositis pain. <b><i>Patient case:</i></b> A patient with sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma presented with refractory treatment-related intranasal mucositis pain. Following initiation of atomized ketamine solution delivered topically into the nostrils, pain improved, and opioid use decreased. After dose adjustment for confusion, the patient continued ketamine therapy for several weeks with good effect. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Atomized ketamine solution delivered intranasally may be a safe and effective topical treatment for mucositis pain of the sinuses. Interpretation of safety of the initial dosing used was affected by several confounding factors. However, a reduced dose appeared efficacious and was well tolerated.